Provisions for the Construction and Testing of Packagings

The first chapter, 6.1 - Provisions for the Construction and Testing of Packagings, applies to packages with a net mass of less than 400 kg, or, if carrying liquid, a capacity of less than 450 liters. It does not apply to pressure receptacles or packages containing radioactive materials. The general provisions state that new packaging types may be used, provided they have been tested by competent authority and found to be equally effective as current packages. Any part of a receptacle that comes into contact with a dangerous good must not react with the substance in a way that weakens the receptacle or its closure. Plastic packagings must be resistant to aging and degradation caused either by the substance being carried or ultraviolet light (for example, sunlight). Packagings need to be manufactured, reconditioned, and tested under quality-assurance programs satisfactory to authorities; specific ISO guidelines are recommended for this. Finally, it is up to packaging manufacturers and distributors to provide information needed to ensure that packages presented for transport are capable of passing the tests outlined in this chapter.

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